Introduction:

Stagnation in the construction sector seems to be finally at an end as a significant pick-up in house-building has begun. Indeed, housing commencements are set to pass 15,000 for the first time since 2008. However, it’s still a long way off the number needed to meet demand as the ESRI recently upgraded their forecast for the required housing output for Ireland to 35,000 units per year.

So, as construction ramps up to deliver the huge backlog in required housing in the coming years, we are going to see significant increases in both public and private residential construction. But, have we learned from the past when it comes to ensuring new builds are safe, healthy and well-constructed?

A fully functioning regulatory system is the cornerstone of rebuilding consumer confidence in the industry. Since 2014, the industry has worked closely with the Department of Housing to develop a robust regulatory regime including the BCaR system. The introduction of the Construction Industry Register of Ireland (CIRI) on a statutory footing is another important step forward. These systems will be truly tested however as the industry starts to deliver an ambitious housing and infrastructure strategy.  With thousands of construction enterprises operating in the industry, many of whom have undergone a traumatic recession, will the system be able to ensure standards are upheld?

This industry supported event will bring together the key stakeholders from the entire national construction eco-system to explore 3 key questions:

1. How can we make our building control and regulatory regime as “safe as houses”?
2. How can construction companies and associated professions show leadership and collaborate effectively to meet and exceed building regulations and standards?
3. As activity ramps up, how can we guarantee the quality and safety of construction practices?